Overview
The Park is a County Wildlife Site and is managed to benefit a wide range of flora and fauna, it is the largest expanse of acid grassland in the county and home to several species of bat.
The 160 acres of Ampthill Great Park has probably been parkland since the 15th century when Ampthill Castle was built on the crest of the Greensand Ridge. In the 16th century it was part of a royal property which also included Houghton Park to the north east. In the 1660’s Lord Ashburnham acquired the land from the crown and built Park House at the northern foot of the ridge. There is some evidence for formal landscape associated with the house at this time.
In the later 18th century Park House was enlarged and at the same time Capability Brown was engaged to improve the grounds; he worked at Ampthill in 1771 and 1772. The present landscape of the Park and its main features are the result of Brown’s work.
Capability Brown is considered to be the most important figure in the 18th century English landscape movement. Although Ampthill Park is not one of his major commissions it is probably the best example of his work in Bedfordshire. In spite of later insertions into the landscape Brown’s work is still relatively unaltered, particularly in the northern part of the Park. Overall Ampthill Park is of considerable significance both locally and at a national scale.
Nuthatch -= Steve BlainAccess
The main access is off the B530 as shown. Other access poiints are available including direct from the market Town of Ampthill.
Parking
Two car parks are available along the B530 along with some street parking.
